Ross Taylor has made a significant assertion regarding Neil Wagner’s retirement ahead of the Test series against Australia, labeling it as involuntary. Despite being named in the squad for the series, Wagner decided to retire from international cricket after learning that he wouldn’t feature in the playing XI for the opening Test.
The left-arm paceman, originally from South Africa, bid an emotional farewell to the game during a press conference before the commencement of the first Test. Wagner, who represented New Zealand in 64 Tests, claimed 260 wickets and played a crucial role in the team’s fast-bowling unit for several years.
During the Test series against South Africa earlier this year, Wagner attracted attention for allegedly showing his middle finger to someone in the New Zealand camp and celebrating a wicket with a shushing gesture.
Taylor expressed his perspective on Wagner’s retirement, suggesting that it signals some discord within the New Zealand camp, a sentiment echoed by former Australia star Aaron Finch in the same discussion.
“It seems to all fall into place now. There’s no disguising it, and it appears to be a retirement that was influenced. If you listen to Wagner’s press conference, he had decided to retire, but it was planned for after this last Test match, so he merely made himself available,” Taylor told ESPN.
The former New Zealand captain also commented on Wagner’s omission from the playing XI in the first Test, emphasizing that Australia would not have had it easy in Wellington.
"I believe it's not just his experience and the way he operates. But the opposition, you heard Cummins discussing the strategies they had (for Wagner). You know, experience counts for a lot, but I agree with Finch. If he had bowled around the wicket to Hazlewood, he might have conceded a few boundaries or even a six, but for the most part, he would have troubled them," he added.
Following Will O’Rourke’s injury in the opening Test, Tim Southee hinted that New Zealand might consider recalling Wagner for the second match. However, selectors opted for Ben Sears as the replacement.
Taylor remarked that Australian batsmen would likely feel relieved knowing that Wagner won’t be part of New Zealand’s lineup in the second Test.
"And to find out that he isn't included (for the second Test), they've gone for Sears. While I understand the need to plan for the future, in a one-off Test against Australia in a critical situation, I wouldn't be looking beyond Neil Wagner, and I'm sure the Australian batters are feeling at ease knowing he won't be in the side," he concluded.
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